Tyre Rules Every UAE Driver Must Know

When it comes to road safety in the UAE, tyres are one of the most important parts of your vehicle. With scorching temperatures, sandy terrain and long highways, the wrong or poorly maintained tyres can quickly lead to accidents. 

That’s why the UAE government has put in place strict tyre rules to protect drivers and passengers. Not only do these rules ensure safety, but following them also saves you from heavy fines, black points and failed vehicle inspection. 

In this guide, we’ll cover all the essential tyre rules every UAE driver must know, along with expert tips on how to choose the right tyres for the region’s weather and road. 

1. Tyres Cannot Be More Than 5 Years Old

The Roads and Transport Authority(RTA) has made it mandatory that vehicle tyres must be less than 5 years old. Even if your tyre looks brand new, the rubber naturally weakens with age, especially in the UAE’s hot climate.

Why it matters: Old tyres are prone to cracks, loss of grip and sudden blowouts on highways.

How to check: Look for the DOT code on the tyre’s side wall (example: ‘1524’ means week 15 of the year 2024). 

Tips: Always buy tyres that are less than two years old at the time of purchase to get the most lifespan. 

2. Minimum Legal Tread Depth

Tread depth is crucial for grip, especially during rain or on sandy roads. Tyres with worn out treads are unsafe and illegal in the UAE. 

• Cars & SUVs (light vehicles): Minimum tread depth of 1.6 mm
• Heavy vehicles (trucks, buses): Between 2.5 mm – 3.5 mm
• Motorcycles: 0.8 mm

How to check: Run your finger along the tyre groove and look for the small, raised tread wear bars inside. If your tread is level with these bars, your tyre needs replacing. 

Tips: Even before you reach the legal minimum, consider replacing tyres at around 3 mm tread depth for better safety.

3. All Tyres Must Match

For stability and safe braking, all four tyres must be of the same size, type and tread pattern. Mixing different tires may affect your car’s balance, fuel efficiency and handling.

How to check: Compare the tyre size codes printed on the side wall (example: 205/55 R16). All four should match exactly.

Tips: Always replays tyres in sets of four, or at least in  pairs (front or rear) for balanced performance.

4. No Used or Retreaded Tyres

Buying used tyres might seem like a money saving option, but in the UAE second hand tyres are banned for passenger cars. Retreaded tyres are only permitted for heavy commercial vehicles under strict ESMA (Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology) rules. 

Why it matters: Used tyres often have hidden damage, making them unsafe in extreme heat. 

Tips: Always purchase tyres from certified dealers to ensure they meet UAE and GCC safety standards.   

5. Tyres Must Withstand UAE Heat

UAE summers can push road temperature above 60 degree celsius. Standard tyres may not survive these extreme conditions, leading to blowouts.

That’s why all tyres sold in the UAE must be heat resistant and rated for GCC climates.

How to check: Look at the temperature rating on your tyres (Marked as A, B or C). Always go for ‘A’ rated tyres for maximum heat resistance.  

Tips: Park in shaded areas whenever possible to protect tyres from direct sun exposure.

6. Proper Labelling and Certification

According to ESMA regulations, All tyres in the UAE must carry proper labelling that includes:

• Manufacture date 
• Size and load index
• Speed rating
• Temperature rating
• Certification mark (proof of meeting ESMA standards)

Tips: If a tyre doesn’t have these details it’s best to avoid it, it may not be compliant or safe. 

7. Tyre Storage & Retail Rules

Tyres deteriorate if stored improperly. Retailers in the UAE are required to store tyres in cool, shaded warehouses away from direct sunlight and high humidity.

Why it matters: Even unused tyres lose strength if stored in poor conditions.

Tips: Avoid buying tyres that are more than 2 years old, even if they’re technically new. 

8. Replace Damaged Tyres Immediately 

Even if your tyres are within age and tread limits, they must be replaced if they show:

• Cracks in the sidewall
• Bulges or bubbles
• Deep cuts
• Uneven wear

Tips: Get your tyres inspected every 10,000 km during rotation and balancing.

9. Penalties for Non Compliance

Driving with unsafe tyres is a punishable offence in the UAE. Fines vary depending on the violation but can include:

• AED 500 fine per damaged or expired tyre
• Vehicle impoundment for up to 7 days 
• 4 black points on your driving license
• Automatic failure at RTA vehicle inspection

Tips: A quick tyre check costs nothing but saves you from hefty penalties and dangerous accidents. 

Choosing the Right Tyres for UAE Roads & Weather

Now that you know the rules, here’s how to pick tyres that perform well in UAE conditions.

1. Follow manufacturer’s specifications: Always match your car’s recommended tyre size, speed and load rating.

2. Choose heat resistant tyres: Look for GCC approved tyres with an ‘A’ temperature rating.

3. Pick the right tread pattern:

• Highway drivers: Go for comfort and fuel efficiency.
• Desert drivers: All terrain tyres for grip on sand.

4. Go for trusted brands: Michelin, Bridgestone, Goodyear, Pirelli, Dunlop etc., All have UAE approved models. 

5. Check warranty: Buy tyres with official warranty for peace of mind.

Final word

Tyres are the foundation of your vehicle’s safety, and in the UAE following tyre rules is not optional it’s the law. From ensuring your tyres are less than 5 years old to checking tread depth, matching sets, and avoiding used tires, every regulation is designed to protect you, your family, and others on the road.

At Abrar Tyres, we supply a wide range of heat resistant tyres designed for UAE weather and road conditions. Whether you drive a sedan, SUV, truck or commercial vehicle, our experts will help you choose the right tyres.

Contact Abrar Tyres today and drive with confidence on UAE roads.